Monomoy Point Light
H254+PG Chatham, MA, USA
Name and Location
The Monomoy Point Light is located at H254+PG Chatham, MA, USA, situated on the easternmost tip of Monomoy Island, within the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge.
Construction and History
The Monomoy Point Light was built in 1897 to aid navigation for mariners traversing the treacherous waters off Cape Cod. During its operational years, the lighthouse played a crucial role in preventing shipwrecks and ensuring safe passage for vessels. The light was deactivated in 1923.
Architecture and Materials
Designed by architect George H. Clark, the Monomoy Point Light is an example of the classical style popular during the late 19th century. The structure stands at an impressive height of 14 feet (4.3 meters) above mean sea level, with a focal plane height of approximately 44 feet (13.4 meters).
Light and Navigation
The original light characteristic was a fixed white light, which provided a range of approximately 17 nautical miles (31 kilometers). Although the lighthouse is no longer operational for navigation purposes, its historic importance and unique architecture make it an attractive destination for visitors.
Accessibility and Visiting
Today, the Monomoy Point Light is a non-operational structure, with access restricted to authorized personnel and researchers. Visitors can reach the site by boat or kayak from Chatham, MA, with guided tours available during peak seasons.
Notable Views and Landscape
Monomoy Island, where the lighthouse is located, is a protected area within the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is home to diverse wildlife, including seals, sea birds, and migratory species. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the island's beaches, dunes, and wetlands.
Anecdotes and Folklore
None available.
Technical and Operational Details
- The lighthouse was designed by George H. Clark, with a height above mean sea level of 14 feet (4.3 meters) and a focal plane height of approximately 44 feet (13.4 meters).
- The original light characteristic was a fixed white light, providing a range of approximately 17 nautical miles (31 kilometers).
Further Information
The Monomoy Point Light has been featured in various publications, including Wikipedia (Q1945051). For those interested in learning more about this iconic landmark, a visit to the National Park Service's Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge website provides additional information on its history, architecture, and surrounding environment.
Details
Name | Monomoy Point Light |
---|---|
City | Chatham |
Country | Usa |
Coordinates | 41.5593357, -69.9936446 |
Year of construction | 1897 |
Events | deactivated in 1923 |
Historic significance | preventing shipwrecks and ensuring safe passage for vessels |
Stories | preventing shipwrecks and ensuring safe passage for vessels |
Architectural style | classical |
Architect | George H. Clark |
Focal height | 44 |
Tower height | 14 |
Access description | by boat or kayak from Chatham, MA, with guided tours available during peak seasons |
Landscape type | island |
View description | scenic views of the island's beaches, dunes, and wetlands |
Guided tours | true |
Facilities | toilets, cafe, gift shop |
Nearby attractions | ["National Park Service's Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge"] |
Light characteristic | "fixed white light" |
Light range | 17 |
Automated | false |